St. Colman’s pupil tragically killed on way to school

The death of a St. Colman’s College student, while making his way to school on Thursday morning, has stunned and saddened the entire school community, Principal Cormac McKinney has said.

Mark Colgan was walking close to his home on the Scarva Road, Banbridge when he was struck by a van shortly before 8.00am. He was rushed to Craigavon Area Hospital where he died a short time later.

The 14-year-old, a third year student at the Newry school, was described as “a quiet and unassuming young man who always had a smile on his face”.

Describing the teenager as “a much-valued member of the school community, Mr McKinney said: “Mark was a very talented and highly respected pupil. He demonstrated enthusiasm and commitment in all areas of school life and will be sadly missed by his many friends, classmates and staff. The thoughts and prayers of the entire College community are with Mark’s family and friends at this very difficult time.”

A popular member of the Aghaderg/Ballyvarley GAA club, the club issued a statement conveying its deep regret and paid tribute to the teenager: “Mark was an enthusiastic and talented footballer and hurler who played a huge part in our underage teams. He was also a quiet and unassuming young man who always had a smile on his face. His family have been at the cornerstone of our club since its foundation.

“We would like to take this opportunity to pass on our heartfelt condolences to his parents Mervyn and Felicity, sister Aideen and brother Paul and the wider Colgan and Stewart families, on behalf of the club and community.”

Expressing his sympathy, SDLP South Down MLA Seán Rogers said: “My heart goes out to the boy’s family, to his friends and the school community of St Colman’s College, Newry at this tragic time. This is absolutely heartbreaking for the boy’s family, and my thoughts and prayers are with them at this incredibly sad time.”

A 30-year-old man who was driving the van was questioned by police after the accident but was later released unconditionally.

Police are appealing to anyone who witnessed the crash or anyone who was travelling on the Scarva Road around the time of the collision to contact them on 0845 600 8000.